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This week on "Off the Cuff," Natalie is joined by Brandi Blanton, director of financial aid at Schreiber School of Veterinary Medicine of Rowan University, to discuss her journey as a first-generation college student who explored several different paths before finding her way in the financial aid profession. Throughout the conversation, Brandi talks about her passion for professional development, financial wellness, how community and connection have shaped her career, and the many ways she supports students beyond financial aid.

The Department of Education (ED) on Thursday published a list of frequently asked questions (FAQ) regarding new Workforce Pell regulations, established under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA). The FAQ touches on how to establish and maintain eligibility for eligible workforce programs. ED noted that this FAQ – along with others on the FSA website – will be updated periodically as it receives and answers new questions about the final regulations.

Celebrated each year on the third Wednesday in October, Financial Aid Day (FAD) is a special day set aside to recognize the contributions of financial aid professionals across the United States who help students make their college-going dreams a reality. On FAD, colleagues are encouraged to do something special—such as an office party, a potluck, or a toast—to celebrate financial aid professionals' contributions to the profession. There are endless ways to celebrate each other, but the most important thing is to have fun and intentionally recognize everyone’s efforts. What is your office doing to celebrate the occasion? Send us your stories and pictures, or use our new FAD Canva Template to create custom social media graphics. Be sure to share them on social media and tag NASFAA!

Please join us in congratulating Michael Wernon and Shelley Elrod on their new jobs. Also join us in congratulating Erica Hook on her achievement. Celebrate your own career developments by completing the "Movers and Shakers" form to share the news with your colleagues.

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